Monday, June 15, 2015

Honoring My Clients As I Close Up Shop


Truth be told, these have been rough weeks at the counseling office.  Tears have been shed, kind and tender tributes have been offered back and forth and back again.  Together, some clients and I have mapped out plans to continue our work over the phone and Skype after a bit of a break, while a few have been referred to other counselors.

And then there are those who are ready to take wings and soar.

On reflection, I'd say we've finished well.  And while it's fair to say that most of them are not exactly ecstatic about my leaving, I think they'd agree that we have worked hard at bringing this season of life together to a most satisfactory conclusion that has honored Christ.

Even if tears flowed freely from time to time with no embarrassment or shame.  From clients and counselor alike.

So instead of focusing on the now empty shelves in a half bare room and my very mixed feelings about this most difficult of transitions, I want to bring tribute to these incredible women of valor.  I hope that by the time you're done reading these words, you'll know why I'm passionate about what I do ... and why it's so hard to leave this place.

:::

no one's immune from sitting in the counseling office
I've talked with clients from 14 - 84.  They've come from endless, fascinating cultures with the broadest array of experiences, challenges, and pain.  But no matter where they find themselves or how they spend their days or how much cash they've got in their pockets, whether they're people full of faith or those who shake their fist in God's face ... when all is said and done, life happens.  And absolutely no one is immune from emotional trauma, grief, unexpected events, family crises, or serious illness that can pull the rug right out from under us.    

it takes courage to come to counseling ... and to keep on coming
Let me put to rest the myth that people who go to counseling are weak.  It takes an inordinate amount of strength to admit you need to talk with a professional.  Tenacity to find the perfect fit with the counselor who has the proper training to match your needs ... and a true connection to your soul.  And raw faith and endless trust to allow that counselor to lead you through your stuff, week in and week out, so that you come out on the other end so much better than when you started.  

every wounded soul needs a healing team 
While counseling conversations are 1-1 and confidential, healing doesn't come in a vacuum.  Together, counselor and client create a healing team that comes alongside as she moves through the tough times.  Safe, caring family members and friends, experienced medical and legal professionals, ongoing support groups, effective community services, church resources, and online help all come into play.  We don't heal on our own.  We were created for community.

counseling's not a 1 hour a week deal  
A motivated client is not content with 1 hour of work a week.  An emphasis on caring for her body through healthy eating, exercise, rest, and a new work/life balance are all on the table.  Consulting with her doctor, taking needed medication as prescribed, and creating a space to meet with God on a regular basis are vital steps in moving ahead.  Those who follow up on assigned reading and journaling, who begin to set up wise boundaries and take concrete steps to reach their goals ... these are the ones who mend, who grow, who heal.

wounded healers emerge from painful places
God doesn't bring healing so we can simply wander off and put our feet up and be happy.  The goal is always to take the lessons learned and the strength and wisdom gathered to bring something of beautiful, healing substance to others.  To be so restored and so grateful and so wise that grace and hope can be offered to others who are broken ... that is when the client knows she's come full circle.

:::

I honor you today, all who've invited me to sit and be present with you in the stark reality of your pain.  To leave no stone gently unturned as we've walked slowly but surely through the dark and scary places into the healing light and freedom that comes through Christ.  To banish the lies that have hindered, to discover the power of forgiveness, and embrace new ways of looking at life and relating to others well.  And ultimately, to claim the joyous potential of inviting our Redeemer to restore 'the years the locusts have eaten' {Joel 2:25}.  

Thank you for allowing me to champion your healing, pray you through each setback, speak the hard truth in love, and celebrate your victories.  When all is said and done, God is faithful and He is good.  

Anticipating what He has in store for us all ~



46 comments:

  1. Linda, I love your passion for your profession, and your tender heart shines through in what you do. Wishing you sweet memories as you walk forward in this new path. : )

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    1. You heard my heart song. Thank you, Crystal, so very much ... yes, the memories are sweet and God has been so incredibly good!

      I am grateful!

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  2. Great post and great points! You seem like a loving, caring and compassionate person! <3 - www.domesticgeekgirl.com

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    1. Well, thanks, Gingi! My clients ... AND my readers ... are very, very dear to me. I'm so glad to do life together with you, even from afar!

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  3. I'll second Gingi's comment Linda. You know I have already wished you well and know your new "digs" will work out fine. Also wanted to say thanks for the recommendations of Leslie Vernick's books. I am currently reading the marriage one and will move to the relationship one next. The marriage one is very spot on and has been helpful.

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    1. A great shout-out for Leslie Vernick! Readers ... if you're looking for true biblical, common sense, no nonsense guidance on how to respond to abusive and destructive relationships / marriages, she's your woman.

      * Pastors and church leaders, take note, please!

      leslievernick.com

      Be sure to subscribe to her blog while you're there. Just excellent.

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  4. I understand your need to "close up shop" as you prepare to move to a new community, Linda, but does that mean you're closing up shop altogether? Retiring from counseling? Not that I would blame you for wanting to slow your life as you enter a new chapter. I just didn't realize that moving meant moving on from not just your house but your career.

    Whether it's an end to your practice or not, I'm certain you will be sorely missed. It sounds as if you are a great keeper of people's secrets and hearts, my friend! Congrats on all that you've accomplished and what you have yet to enjoy! Love ya!

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    1. I just don't have a clue! I have no idea what God has in store! I'm committed to continue to working with my current clients and I'm committed to continue writing and blog coaching. Outside of that, it's all fuzzy and uncertain.

      It's a big faith stretcher for sure. I wonder who I am if I'm not counseling, what will I do with my time, who will I be.

      God's daughter, for sure. And right now, that gives me peace and purpose.

      But ... there is a wonderful space above the garage that we're already calling The Nest ...

      Thanks for keeping me on my toes ... and for all that prayer support you've lifted up for me and mine this year. I so appreciate you.

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  5. This is so beautiful, I am a huge believer in counseling so I thank you for what you do and for honoring your clients so well. It is clear that you have a wonderful heart after God's heart and that you love His people. Thank you for your words. #raralinkup

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    1. You encourager, you! Thank you so much for your visit this morning, Kaylie! So very good to have you here ...

      ;-}

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  6. Dear Linda ,I read your response to Beth. I am relieved you are still available for counselling even if it is for a different community.
    May God order your foot steps aright.
    Many Blessings to you

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    1. I'm waiting to see what God has for me to be, to do in this next season. Not quite sure what that might be. And that's ok!

      ;-}

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  7. Blessings to you in the midst of transition, Linda. What a beautiful tribute to those you have counseled. God has used your gifts and wisdom in powerful ways that are reflected in your writing. Blessings on your future endeavors!

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    1. You're generous, Ginger. I'm encouraged by your kind words today! Thank you.

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  8. This is so beautiful! My husband and I went into counseling last year after being married only two years (we're in our twenties!) and it was such sweet, healing time. I've been sharing and blogging about it as much as possible and hope that everyone sees what a wonderful thing it is! The work you do is so valuable, and I'm sure God will use your heart for people in many beautiful ways even as you move into a new season. Thanks for sharing!

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    1. That you headed off to counseling 2 years into your marriage was such a wise and courageous move, Lauren. Most of the people I've worked with over the years wait til it's almost too late and I only wish they had come earlier when the challenges began to stack up.

      I look forward to continuing to connect with you! I so appreciate that you write about what you've gleaned in your counseling season. To share your learnings is lovely, rare, and deeply encouraging to those who are scared to go there ... that maybe they, too, could find that sweet healing that you wrote about is a marvelous gift to share.

      Blessings!

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  9. Beautiful words from a beautiful soul!! You have blessed so many over the years. Each and every one was blessed by God to have you!!! May God continue to lead and direct your every step!!!

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    1. Don't you love that He keeps on leading us one step at a time? He gives us just enough light for the next move, but not so much that we lean on our own understanding.

      What a Wonderful Counselor we serve!

      ;-}

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  10. My dear, friend, how blessed are they who have been under your sweet care. Your love for God, and for them shines so brightly. He has something special in store, just around the bend, of that I am certain. You are brave to walk this path, one step at a time, and He will bless you for it. You are in my thoughts and prayers daily.

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    1. June - your prayers mean the world. There are some days we just feel carried, ya' know? It's so cool that we can support each other in such a meaningful way. Thanks for traveling this road with me, the road to ?

      ;-}

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  11. What a beautiful tribute to bravery, authenticity and God's grace! Your clients have been blessed to know you as well as all you have learned throughout your career. In this time of transition, I pray that the journey moves forward in a path that leads you even closer to God. You are amazing and your heart shows through your writing every time. Love and hugs friend!

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    1. I'm glad you caught how much I admire these women, Mary! They're just incredible. And yes, isn't it true that the less we're certain of, the more we lean into Him?

      And that's just what He desires, isn't it ...

      So ... how's retirement treating you?

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  12. Linda, you have such a beautiful heart and have no doubt been a tremendous blessing to many. God bless you for the ways you have cared for others. Much love. xoxo

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    1. It always makes me smile when I see you drop in because I know you've been pulling back from all the online craziness. Thanks so much for walking with me, with us, even though you're not writing up a storm, Beth! I hope that you're enjoying this new way of living and that's it's bringing a freedom and joy to your soul.

      ;-}

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  13. Linda,
    Oh, I can imagine how hard it must have been...I've been praying for you and your transition...I pray now also for those who've been part of your life that God will also comfort them...and yes, counseling does and can make a difference...much love and hugs to you :-)

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    1. To know you've been praying feels like a great big hug, Dolly! Thanks for your faithfulness, for showing God's love in action ...

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  14. Linda, this is so true. I have such fond memories of my time in counseling. I know it made me the woman that I am today and I praise God for this. God is good. I love everything you point out. Loved visiting you from Holley's linkup today.

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    1. So good to hear that someone has fond memories of counseling. When all is said and done, I think most people will agree with you, even though the work that had to be done in that season was often grueling and painful. Getting to that place of healing and wholeness can be a hard journey, but oh so worth it!

      Thanks for letting people know that counseling can be a healing stream, Kelly. I'm so glad you dropped by ...

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  15. Good luck to you in this season of transition and the bittersweet of closing one chapter but opening another. Thanks for these encouraging words

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    1. Bittersweet captures it all ... thanks for hearing my heart, Kathryn!

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  16. Linda,
    As I read this post of closing up shop, even though it sounds hard, I hear the hope beyond your words! Hope for new challenges, new opportunities in your new place of promise as you serve those around you. I can imagine how hard this time is for you as you prepare for a huge move but I can't help but see it as a grand new adventure for you, my sweet friend! xoxo

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    1. I love that you've glimpsed the HOPE, Valerie! I've tucked those 'grand new adventure' words somewhere deep today, and will take them with me as I go.

      Because I know that they are true.

      ;-}

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  17. Standing by you, Linda, as you stood by me, day in and day out. I love you and all that God has made you to be!

    Keepin' on flippin' those stones...
    Alicia

    P.S. So fun returning to your original post ("5 Truths") and finding my comment from two years ago! How much has come to pass since I was "Anazopureo." God's blessings and mercy abound!

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    1. You, my dear, are a living testament of His healing grace. What a privilege it's been to walk with you along the way.

      I'm overjoyed at what God's doing in your life in this season. I'm absolutely filled with gratitude ...

      Keep me posted if you'd like!

      ;-}

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  18. Blessings and happiness. Man! are you in for an adventure. He's got plans for you - great plans. You think this is the end....I tell you the truth, my dear friend. It. is. just. the. BEGINNING!

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    1. I so appreciate your insight and the confidence you have in our great God. I join you in claiming that He is able to unfold our futures in ways that leave us astounded!

      Thanks for speaking words of grace into my life, Chris. I so appreciate that you are walking with me!

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  19. Linda, I will have to say that I've been very helped by some caring, loving, people that are counselors. Sometimes it is just a listening ear and sometimes it is just a kind word. But all the time it is caring. I can feel that caring in your words. Best of luck in the future in all you do. Visiting from Holley Gerth's.

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    1. So glad that you, too, have had some good counseling experiences, Rebecca! I love spreading the word that this counselor / client relationship can have an incredible impact on a hurting soul.

      I know ... because I've been on both sides of the table.

      Thanks for taking the time to leave a trail of encouragement, friend!

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  20. That is such a sweet tribute to your clients and a powerful reminder that we all need a coach and/or a cheerleader when we feel fragile. Your sensitivity and strength is much appreciated I'm sure.

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    1. Yep, we've all got those fragile seasons ... and it's so helpful when we have a gentle, yet strong companion to guide us through those times. I've been on the giving AND the receiving end of those kind of relationships and truly get how vital they are.

      Thanks, Pary! You heard my heart!

      ;-}

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  21. I love how you remind us that we aren't designed to heal and just be happy, but to use that experience to help others. So true Linda!

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    1. Nicki, yes! He is the Redeemer, and He so desires that we use our redemption to reach out to others who find themselves in the same deep dark place that we ourselves once were.

      What a wonderful Savior!

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  22. What a beautiful tribute that left me in tears- but tears of hope. You are a gifted writer.

    It has been a journey for you and everyone of your clients and what graces have abounded through all that pain. There is a lot of fruit for your faithful service. And I am blessed to walk closer with our God now because of your beautiful ministry.

    Thank you for saying yes to God.

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    1. Ah, the graces that have abounded through all that pain. Only God could break through with a healing touch.

      Only God.

      Your kind words have ministered deep to my soul today. Thank you, thank you, for your tender tribute to His healing presence in our lives ...

      ;-}

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  23. Wow! First, thank you for visiting me the other day. Since you are a new friend, I wanted to come learn more about you and found myself captivated by your transition story. What a beautiful tribute to your clients in all that you said about counseling. From everything I read about your story, I can only imagine what a loss this is to them. I hope to get to know you better as the months progress. Journey blessings!

    Christi

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    1. Your kind words show what's best about those link-ups, Christi ... expanding our borders, connecting with other kindred spirits, finding a new friend in the process.

      Welcome to Creekside!

      ;-}

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Welcome to the table, friend!

This is where we gather and hang out. I'd love for you to pull up a chair and jump right into the conversation. Or simply say 'hello.'

l'll be dropping in to visit you sometime soon ...

Linda

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